Seems somewhat similar to speed? https://cardsjd.com/speed/

one thing they could and should be doing is enabling those conversations with potential customers right now so you can validate the product/features you're building as well as have them be ready/aware to use your product when you do launch.

Agree with this. Your domain experts should already be inputting into the product and bringing early adopters to the table to help you build the right product. You development for X months whilst they wait for the product to be fully baked is the wrong way to go about it.

Fee rebates have become really common as well in my experience.

Yeah, what are you taking about?

Go to a broker and say "I'll use you if you split half of your commission with me." Or seek out a company/brokerage in your area that explicitly offers "commission rebates."

How do you find that?

Just ask. Or use Redfin.